Florida’s Economic Outlook Brightens Despite Declining Confidence Nationwide: UF Consumer Sentiment Survey

Floridians expressed increased optimism about their state’s economy in the latest University of Florida Consumer Sentiment survey. The state’s consumer sentiment rose to 73.2 from the previous month’s figure of 72, despite declining economic confidence nationwide over the past three months.

Hector H. Sandoval, Director of the Economic Analysis Program at UF’s Bureau of Economic and Business Research, noted that while there was modest improvement in consumer sentiment in Florida, concerns remain about higher inflation and historically high interest rates set by the Federal Reserve. Despite this, Floridians expressed concern about their personal financial situations and a slight decrease in optimism compared to the previous year. They were reluctant to make large purchases such as home appliances.

Looking ahead, Sandoval indicated that fluctuations in consumer sentiment are likely to occur, influenced by economic forecasts and election-related uncertainty. Nonetheless, as long as the Federal Reserve maintains its current interest rate policy, significant changes in consumer confidence are not expected in the near future. The UF Consumer Sentiment survey was conducted from June 1 through June 27 with 551 Floridians participating in interviews through email, phone calls or online questioning.